Air Source Heat Pumps

Projects

CCHRC is working with utilities in Southeast Alaska to identify air source heat pumps that work for homes with baseboard hydronic heating. CCHRC is investigating the stats and availability of compatible technologies for residential applications in the U.S. and foreign markets.

This project measured the design heat load of houses by monitoring the runtime of the furnace in relation to outdoor temperatures. The study monitored 20 houses in the Anchorage area during very cold weather to better determine appropriate heating system sizing for the HVAC industry.

CCHRC and the Alaska Center for Energy and Power conducted the first in-depth assessment of ground source heat pumps in Alaska. We studied a system at a local elementary school that uses warmth from the ground to heat the building, and recharges the soil with solar energy in the summer.

ASHPs take heat from the outdoor air and use electricity to raise the temperature. Because they require less electricity than electric heating appliances, heat pumps could reduce heating costs for Southeast residents.